August 31, 2004
Wimbledon May Surprise Us
As I've mentioned in previous posts, the genre of romantic comedies is not exactly my favorite style of film to catch on a Friday night. However, every once in a while a decent one comes along that provides you with a good time perhaps despite itself. Wimbledon has shaped up to look like it may be one of these films.
Keep in mind, one look at the trailer and you can instantly tell a number of standard romantic comedy formulas are VERY present. There will be no surprise ending to this movie... and I'm sure none of us will be wondering if the guy will eventually get the girl. However, the film has one very strong thing going for it.... Paul Bettany.
I've been a fan of Bettany ever since he stepped up and completely stole the show from Heath Ledger (perhaps not that difficult a thing to do) in A Knight's Tale a few years ago. He was fantastic as Charles the imaginary friend in A Beautiful Mind and again very strong in Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (holding his own both times on screen with Russell Crowe). Bettany has fantastic timing and mannerisms that make him perfect for the romantic comedy genre. I've been waiting for someone to give him a legitimate lead role.
Look, this movie may very well suck... but give it a shot. I have a feeling it may surprise us. Or not. Wow I'm really decisive.
Posted by John Campea at August 31, 2004 07:18 AM
Comments
Posted by: Day-vuh at August 31, 2004 07:22 AM
I liked A Knight's Tale. Why don't I feel dirty?
Posted by: Stuffed Ninja at August 31, 2004 07:53 AM
Dude, the preview, as long as it is, looks so promising. I viewed it online when it first hit a few months ago (I have a terrible sense of calendar recollection, please forgive) and it made me turn to the boy toy and say, "We are going to that." And, I hate tennis. I really do. It's right up there with baseball in terms of the Zzzzzzzzzz factor for me.
Posted by: Lilly at August 31, 2004 08:27 AM
the only thing surprising about this movie is that they're still making sports romantic comedies. I thought they perfected the genre with 1992's "the Cutting Edge". I'm also weary of any movie that was written by 3 who's writing credits include episodes of 90210 and L.A. Law, as well as movies like French Kiss and Practical Magic. Save your money, go see "we don't live here anymore" for phenomenal acting if that's what your looking for (as well as a great story).
Posted by: NICK at August 31, 2004 10:43 AM
Just for the record: Chasing Amy is a great movie. Probarbly the best romantic comedy there is imo.
Posted by: rvnlrd at August 31, 2004 11:05 AM
Don't forget that Darius Khondji is the Dp on Wimbeldon... so it should look stunning
Posted by: Roland at August 31, 2004 11:47 AM
I have had my review of it posted on www.joblo.com... look through news items posted this week. it's there. i loved the film personally.
Posted by: stewie at September 5, 2004 11:41 AM
You shoulda seen Bettany in Gangster No 1 alongside Malcolm McDowell.. Certainly not the best gangster movie out there, but a damn spiffy performance with some pretty intense scenes...yeesh...
As for me, I didn't think there was anything worth stealing in a Kight's Tale.. yeesh.. I got into that flick for FREE and I still felt ripped off.